Miners season bittersweet

The Hanna, Elk Mountain, Medicine Bow (HEM) High School boys basketball team were aware, going into state, there were some excellent teams to go up against. Their goal was to get one of the four trophies awarded when it was over.

The first game against Encampment the Miners played competitive, but lost 62-44. They were hopeful they would beat Lingle/Ft. Laramie and at half-time, they were ahead 26-22. The 3rd quarter had the Miners score 5 points to the Doggers 15. The Miners did score 10 in the 4th period, but the Doggers got 13 making the final score 50-41 and the season was over for HEM’s boys basketball team.

“State basketball didn’t end how we wanted to, but I was proud of the kids and the effort that they put forth,” HEM head basketball coach Cliff Jones said. “We finished the season in Casper and that’s not a bad thing.”

He was happy the team made it to Casper for several reasons.

“It was a great experience for our younger kids and a decent way for our seniors to finish their career having earned their way to play in the state tournament all four years,” Jones said. “Congratulations to Saratoga and Coach Williams for their run to the title.”

Jones is not wasting time looking back at basketball.

“Now, on to track season,” Jones said knowing HEM has done well the past couple years with many of the same athletes.